What is Laylat al-Qadr and why is it important during Ramadan?

Laylat al-Qadr, often translated as the "Night of Power" or "Night of Decree," is a significant Islamic observance that commemorates the night when God first began revealing the Qurʾān to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel.12

This event is believed to have occurred in 610 CE during the final ten nights of Ramadan. While the exact date is not specified, it is most commonly observed on the 23rd night by Shiʿi Muslims and the 27th night by Sunni Muslims.12

The night is considered profoundly important for several reasons:
* Divine Revelation: It marks the inception of the Qurʾān, which serves as guidance for humanity.12
* Spiritual Significance: It is believed to be a night when angels descend to earth, bringing peace, blessings, and divine guidance until dawn.12
* Devotion: Because of its sanctity, Muslims commemorate the night with intense prayer, solemnity, and devotion. Many observers choose to spend the night in a mosque engaged in retreat, known as iʿtikāf.12